Congratulations to the soldiers of OSUT class 24-28 (Arma3) for successful completion of training! These soldiers have been awarded the Army Service Ribbon and have earned the right to be full active members of their squad and the unit! This is merely the first step in your career here at 3rdID, we look forward to your continued success! Hooah

Graduates :

 PFC R.Ridge    

 PFC H.Poynor 

 PFC D.Kova      

Instructors :

 SPC P.Byrde        

  SPC D.Hughson     

11B Congrats.txt

The Alpha Company Award Ceremony is a special occasion once a month to allow the unit commander to honor recipients who have been recognized for their accomplishments while assigned to the 3rd Infantry Division Realism Gaming Unit.

The Secretary of the Army has reposed special trust and confidence in the patriotism, valor, fidelity, and professional excellence of the following Soldiers. In view of these qualities and their dedicated service to the 3rd Infantry Division, they are, therefore, promoted and awarded the following.

A congratulations and thank you to all those who joined our 24 hour Joint Operation, you all did great and made the unit proud!

The following Soldiers are promoted to:

E-4B SPECIALIST

 PFC John Harro is being promoted to Specialist

E-4A CORPORAL

 SPC Jacob Frost is being promoted to Corporal

E-5 SERGEANT 

 CPL Hazel McMahon is being promoted to Sergeant

 CPL Michael Donnelly is being promoted to Sergeant

E-7 SERGEANT FIRST CLASS

 SSG Nolan Kovic is being promoted to Sergeant First Class

W-1 WARRANT OFFICER 1

WOC David Smith is being promoted to Warrant Officer 1

The following soldiers have been awarded:

Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM)

 1SG V.Garcia

 CPL H.McMahon

 WO1 D.Frost

Good Conduct Medal (GCM)

 2LT E.Babol

 SFC D.Marsh

 SSG J.Duck

 SSG R.Ivanov

 SGT A.Byrd

 SGT D.Shade

 SGT A.Shocked

 SGT W.Fives

 SGT D.Smiřický 

 SGT J.Nicholas

 CPL M.Donnelly

 CPL R.Winters

 CPL J.Starling

 SPC H.Rue

 SPC G.Plunkett

 SPC I.Franklin

 SPC T.Pearson

 SPC K.Siegel

 PFC J.Forrester

 PFC N.McEnheimer

 PFC R.Veneer

 PFC C.Silva

 CW2 D.Lotus

 CW2 E.Poltorak

 WO1 K.Hall

 WO1 D.Frost

 WO1 J.White

Armed Forces Service Medal (AFSM)

 2LT C.Winters

 CPL J.Starling

 CPL T.Hunter

 CPL A.Zvik

 SPC M.Alther

 SPC D.Hughson

 SPC I.Franklin

Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (AFEM)

 CPT G.Tucci 

 CPL D.Schneider 

 SPC T.Pearson 

 CW2 D.Lotus 

Army Achievement Medal (AAM)

 CPL M.Donnelly with "" device

 SPC K.Erickson with "" device

 SPC Q.Clayton with "" device

 SPC R.Sjordal with "" device

 PFC A.Siebens with "" device

 SPC M.Alther

 SPC Z.williamson

 PFC S.Baker

 PFC A.McFarland

 PFC F,Ramirez

 PV2 Z.Hudson

 PV2 Z.Rashdan

Army Commendation Medal (ARCOM)

 SPC X.Swoop with "" device

 SPC T.Anderson with "" device

 WOC D.Smith with "" device

 SPC S.Ohwo with "" device

 SPC S.Kidon with "" device

 SGT D.Smiricky

 CPL T.Hunter

 SPC D.Hughson

 SPC B.Montana

 SPC M.Gregoire

National Defense Service Medal (NDSM)

 PFC J.Shevel

 WO1 K.Hall

PVT H.Poynor

PVT A.Caar

Purple Heart (PH)

 CPL B.Fitzgerald

 SPC B.Montana

Joint Service Achievement Medal (JSAM)

 SPC A.Bills

 SPC K.Krios

Joint Service Commendation Medal (JSCOM)

 CPL T.Hunter

Meritorious Service Medal (MSM)

 CW2 A.Demaio

Global War on Terrorism Service Medal (GWOTS-M)

 SSG N.Kovic

 SPC G.York

3rd Infantry Division Combat Unit Patch

 SSG N.Kovic

 SPC G.York

Overseas Service Ribbon (OSR)

 SFC D.Marsh

 SGT W.Fives

Humanitarian Service Medal (HSM)

 1LT N.Cooper

 1SG V.Garcia

 SSG R.Ivanov

 CPL G.Nagy

 CW4 A.diomedes

 WO1 D.Frost

Soldier's Medal (SM)

 CPL B.Fitzgerald

Air Assault Badge

 SSG J.Duck

 CPL G.Nagy

 SPC G.Plunkett

 CW2 A.DeMaio

French Fourragere

 SSG J.Duck

Army Aviation Basic Crewmember Badge

 CPL G.Nagy

U.S. Army Aviator Wings

 WOC D.Smith

Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB1)

 SPC J.Fuller

 PV2 T.Lanza 

 PV2 D.Ngoc 

 PV2 T.Mensink

Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB2)

 SPC I.Bar-Tal 

 SPC E.Shmul

Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB3)

 SSG N.Kovic 

 SPC G.York

Combat Action Badge (CAB1)

 PFC J.Grant 

 PFC A.McFarland 

 PV2 P.Magál 

 PV2 T.Lanza

 PV2 J.Moffet

 PV2 Z.Hudson 

Thank you all for reading, if you still are. Have a fantastic day!

Congratulations to the soldiers of OSUT class 24-27 (Arma3) for successful completion of training! These soldiers have been awarded the Army Service Ribbon and have earned the right to be full active members of their squad and the unit! This is merely the first step in your career here at 3rdID, we look forward to your continued success! Hooah

Graduates :

 PFC N.Irwin   

 PV2 M.Marsh               

 PV2 E.Marsh               

Instructors :

 SGT W.Fives         

 SPC B.Montana   

 SPC Q.Clayton       

 SPC M.Alther         

 SPC S.Ohwo          

 CPL A.Zvik              

 WO1 J.White           

July 4th, commonly known as Independence Day, is a cornerstone of American heritage, commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. This historic document, primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson, marked the Thirteen Colonies' official decision to break free from British rule and form a new nation, the United States of America.

The journey to independence was arduous, involving political strife, philosophical debates, and eventually, armed conflict. The Declaration of Independence was not merely a statement of separation but a profound articulation of the colonies' desire for freedom and self-governance. It emphasized the inherent rights of individuals, including "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness," which became foundational principles for the new nation.

July 4th is celebrated with fervor across the United States. Festivities typically include fireworks, parades, concerts, and family gatherings. Fireworks symbolize the revolutionary war and the battles fought for independence, their bright explosions mirroring the hope and joy of the nation's newfound freedom. Parades often feature patriotic displays, with participants dressed in historical costumes, and the American flag waving proudly. These parades serve as a reminder of the country's history and the values that continue to unite its citizens. Concerts and patriotic songs like "The Star-Spangled Banner" and "America the Beautiful" further amplify the spirit of national pride. Family gatherings and barbecues are another hallmark of Independence Day, reflecting the importance of community and togetherness. Whether it's a simple backyard cookout or a large family reunion, these events emphasize the social fabric that binds the nation.

Beyond the celebrations, July 4th is a day for reflection. It reminds Americans of the sacrifices made by their forefathers and the enduring principles of democracy and freedom. It is a time to appreciate the progress made and to consider the ongoing efforts to achieve a more perfect union. In essence, July 4th is more than just a holiday; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of freedom and the unyielding pursuit of a better future. As fireworks light up the night sky and the nation comes together in celebration, the legacy of independence and the promise of liberty for all remain as relevant today as they were in 1776.

The 3rd Infantry Division Realism Unit was established on July 4th, 2003, during a period when military simulation games were gaining popularity. Our founders Lieutenant Colonel D.Toby and Major J.Mathews were fans of series like America's Army and Day of Defeat and sought to create a more structured and realistic gaming environment that mirrored actual military operations. Inspired by the storied history of the 3rd Infantry Division, known for its service in World War I, World War II, and various conflicts thereafter, the unit adopted its name and ethos.

In May 2006 our current Battalion commander Major John LaFlash began his storied career with the 3rd ID. Rapidly climbing the ranks to Second Lieutenant and leading our First Platoon Widowmakers. By March of 2008 the Major was promoted to Captain and given command of Alpha Company. The Majors leadership was crucial to the success of the unit throughout the years. He oversaw the transfer from Arma 2 to our current platform, Arma 3, in September of 2013. Overseeing the opening and closure of various companies for our supported games such as America’s Army, Battlefield 2 and Insurgency. In December of 2019 we finally settled on a single company supporting Arma 3. Thus, the structure we still maintain to this day.

The 3rd ID meticulously models its structure after the real 3rd Infantry Division. This includes a detailed rank system, specialized roles, and an emphasis on training and discipline. Members undergo rigorous training programs that teach them the fundamentals of military tactics, communication, and leadership. The unit’s hierarchy ensures that members can progress through the ranks by demonstrating skill, dedication, and teamwork.

Central to the 3rd ID experience are the organized operations and missions. These events are meticulously planned and executed, often drawing on real-world military tactics and strategies. Members participate in various roles, from infantry and recon to aviation and support, working together to accomplish mission objectives. These operations provide an immersive experience, challenging members to think critically, communicate effectively, and perform under pressure.

The 3rd ID prides itself on fostering a strong sense of community. Members share a common interest in military history and simulation, creating bonds through shared experiences and teamwork. The unit’s culture emphasizes respect, camaraderie, and continuous improvement, ensuring that new recruits are welcomed and mentored by more experienced members.

Over the years, the 3rd Infantry Division Realism Unit has grown and evolved, attracting members from around the world. Its commitment to realism and authenticity has made it a respected name in the military simulation gaming community. The unit’s activities extend beyond gaming, with members often participating in real-life events, military history discussions, and charitable activities.

In conclusion, we stand as a testament to the enduring appeal of military simulation gaming. By combining historical reverence with modern technology, the 3rd ID offers a unique and enriching experience for its members, honoring the legacy of the real 3rd Infantry Division while forging its own path in the digital realm.